Food service cup dispensers, systems, and methods

ABSTRACT

Systems for providing on-demand cup printing and dispensing for food service are provided herein. A cup dispenser includes a cup source configured to hold a stack of cups and one or more cup-moving elements configured to cause a cup from the stack of cups to move through the cup dispenser. The cup dispenser includes a motor configured to operate the one or more cup-moving elements to cause the cup to move through the cup dispenser along a path. The cup dispenser also includes a printer configured to print at least one of order information or personalization information on the cup that is based on the food service order associated with the cup. The cup dispenser further includes a dispensing slot that provides the cup, which includes the at least one of order information or personalization information printed thereon.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/712,465, filed Jul. 31, 2018, entitled “Personalized Food ServiceMaterial Printing Systems”, and U.S. Provisional Application No.62/597,516, filed Dec. 12, 2017, entitled “Personalized Food ServiceMaterial Printing Systems”; each of which is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Example embodiments of the present invention generally relate toprinting and dispensing systems for food service and, more particularlyto on-demand cup printing and dispensing systems for food service.

BACKGROUND

Customer experience for food service can often feel impersonal. Acustomer may provide a food order and a food service person may thenpackage up the food order for the customer. The packaging is pre-printedand supplied to the food service store often months in advance, suchthat the customer is presented with generic food packaging for theirfood order. Further, any promotions or messages that a food servicebusiness may want to present to the customer on a food service materialitem (e.g., food wrap, food container, cup, carry-out bag, tray liner,napkin, etc.) requires a significant lag time from formation of thepromotion/message to presentation to the customer.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Some embodiments of the present invention provide on-demand food servicematerial printing for food service. Such systems may provide manyadvantages, including for example personalization of food servicematerial and/or real-time promotion availability for stores. Once acustomer places a request for food service, the system can determineorder information about the customer's order and/or personalizationinformation about the customer or store. Such information may begathered based on any information available including, for example, userprofiles, past order history, store promotions, social media, a user'sdevice, among many other things. Using that information, the system maydetermine information to print on one or more food service materialitems that may be provided to the customer with their food order. Suchprint information may include order information (e.g., confirming theirfood order) and personalization information (e.g., the customer name, apromotion geared to the customer, an image that is personalized for thecustomer such as a favorite sports team, etc.). That print informationis then printed on one or more food service material items using adispenser (e.g., printer) in the store. In some embodiments, the foodservice material item may have some pre-printed information as well(e.g., logos, images, etc.). The printed food service material item maythen be retrieved and used by the food service person to prepare thefood order for the customer.

With personalized information printed on the food service material item,the customer's experience may improve by providing personalization andtargeted promotions that are more likely to be pertinent to thecustomer. With order information printed on the food service materialitem, a food service person handling the food service material item ismore likely to prepare an accurate food order for the customer. Further,providing on-demand printed food service material provides for real-timeneeds of the food service business and reduces significantshipping/manufacturing costs and overall waste from unused or oldpromotions.

Such a system may be used to provide on-demand printing for any type offood service material item including, for example, food wrap, foodcontainers, cups, carry-out bags, tray liners, napkins, pouches, amongmany others. As an example, two dispensers may be available to print onrolls of food wrap (one for printing on premium food wrap and one forprinting on value food wrap). Depending on the order information, theappropriate dispenser could be chosen. Further, by using rolls of foodwrap, a proper dimension (e.g., length) of the food wrap could be cutusing and then dispensed to the food service person for use inpreparation of the food order. This provides increased variability inproviding a printed food wrap sheet appropriately sized for the foodorder, which may reduce unnecessary waste due to oversized food wrap.Various embodiments, such as described herein, however, contemplate manydifferent types of dispensers for printing on and dispensing differenttypes of food service material (e.g., a food service material dispenser,a cup dispenser, a food bag dispenser, a food pouch dispenser, etc.).

In some embodiments, the available promotions or messages may be updatedon-the-fly and dynamically chosen based on the customer or store. Thechoice of promotion or message could be based on data gathered by thesystem, taking into account many factors including, for example,customer trends, desired time windows or products to “push”/promote,among many other things.

In some embodiments, an example system may provide instructions to othersystems (e.g., front or back-of-house dispensers/components) to helpwith the order or overall store management. For example, a napkindispenser may be instructed to dispense an appropriate number of napkinsto complete the food order. The system could also monitor ink usageand/or food service material usage and handle ordering/maintenance needsautomatically.

In an example embodiment, a cup dispenser for dispensing a cup withprinted information for use with a food service order is provided. Thecup dispenser comprises a cup source configured to hold a stack of cupsand one or more cup-moving elements configured to cause a cup from thestack of cups to move through the cup dispenser. The cup dispenserfurther comprises a motor configured to operate the one or morecup-moving elements to cause the cup to move through the cup dispenseralong a path. The cup dispenser further comprises a printer configuredto print at least one of order information or personalizationinformation on the cup. The at least one of order information orpersonalization information is based on the food service orderassociated with the cup. The cup dispenser further comprises adispensing slot positioned along the path and configured to hold the cupand enable a user to access the cup, wherein, when the cup is accessibleby the user, the cup includes the at least one of order information orpersonalization information printed thereon.

In some embodiments, the printer is positioned along the path downstreamof the cup source.

In some embodiments, the one or more cup-moving elements comprise acup-rotation structure configured to cause the cup to rotate after beingprinted on by the printer. In some embodiments, the cup-rotationstructure is positioned within the dispensing slot and configured tocause the cup to rotate within the dispensing slot. In some embodiments,the cup dispenser further comprising a door configured to cover thedispensing slot during printing.

In some embodiments, the one or more cup-moving elements comprise a cupsource removal structure configured to separate the cup from the stackof cups. In some embodiments, the one or more cup-moving elementscomprise a cup movement structure configured to cause the cup to movefrom the cup source to a printing position for being printed on by theprinter. In some embodiments, the cup source is positioned above theprinter such that gravity causes the removed cup to fall into a printingposition for being printed on by the printer.

In some embodiments, the cup dispenser further comprises a userinterface configured to display information corresponding to the foodservice order.

In some embodiments, the cup source is configured to hold a plurality ofstacks of cups. In some embodiments, two of the plurality of stacks ofcups comprise differently-sized cups, and wherein the one or morecup-moving elements are configured to selectively cause removal of aspecifically sized cup based on the food service order.

In some embodiments, the cup dispenser further comprises a communicationelement configured to communicate with a remote computing device. Theremote computing device comprises a food request module configured toreceive a request for food service for a customer, wherein the requestfor food service includes the food service order. In some embodiments,the cup dispenser further comprises a controller configured to receive,via the communication element and from the remote computing device, foodservice order data corresponding to the food service order. Thecontroller is further configured to determine, based on the food serviceorder data, the at least one of order information or personalizationinformation to print on the cup. The controller is further configured tocause dispensing of the cup with the at least one of order informationor personalization information printed thereon.

Some additional embodiments include apparatuses, systems, and methodsincluding various example embodiments, such as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an example on-demand food servicematerial printing system, in accordance with some embodiments discussedherein;

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an example food request system, inaccordance with some embodiments discussed herein;

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate example ways to submit a request for food servicefor an example on-demand food service material printing system, inaccordance with some embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 3 illustrates example order print information and personalizationprint information for a food service material item, in accordance withsome embodiments discussed herein;

FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate example order print information and/orpersonalization print information for a food service material item, inaccordance with some embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 5A illustrates a common logistics flow from creation of a promotionto supplying a store with promotional material;

FIG. 5B illustrates an example logistics flow from creation of apromotion to packaging a food order using an example on-demand foodservice material printing system, in accordance with example embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 6 illustrates example on-demand printing on a food service materialitem and packaging of a food order, in accordance with some embodimentsdiscussed herein;

FIGS. 7, 7A, 7B, and 7C show block diagrams of example food servicematerial dispensers that include print devices, in accordance with someembodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 8A shows two example food service material printers for use with anexample on-demand food service material printing system, in accordancewith some embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 8B illustrates dispensing of a printed food service material item,in accordance with some example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 9 shows example food orders, where some of the food orders arepackaged in a food service material item with printed informationthereon, in accordance with example embodiments described herein;

FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate example dispensers for use with exampleon-demand food service material printing systems, in accordance withsome example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 11 illustrates an example food service material dispenser, inaccordance with some example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 11A illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser shown in FIG.11, where the front panel and side panel have been removed, inaccordance with some example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 11B illustrates some inner components of the example dispensershown in FIG. 11, where the dispensing path of the food service materialis illustrated, in accordance with some example embodiments discussedherein;

FIGS. 11C-D illustrate a roll holder and cutting arrangement assemblyfor the dispenser shown in FIG. 11, in accordance with some exampleembodiments discussed herein;

FIGS. 11E-F illustrate close-up views of an example tensioner used inconjunction with the example food service material dispenser shown inFIG. 11, in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIG. 11G illustrates a printer and chute assembly for the dispensershown in FIG. 11, in accordance with some example embodiments discussedherein;

FIG. 12A illustrates a close-up view of an example guide bar used inconjunction with example food service material dispensers describedherein, in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIG. 12B illustrates a close-up view of an example clutch mechanism usedin conjunction with a guide bar, where portions of the dispenser areremoved for explanation purposes;

FIG. 12C illustrates another close-up view of the example guide bar andclutch mechanism, with a portion of the dispenser housing removed forexplanation purposes;

FIG. 12D shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the dispenser andthe clutch mechanism, in accordance with some example embodiments;

FIG. 13 illustrates an example cup dispenser, in accordance with someexample embodiments discussed herein;

FIGS. 13A-B illustrate an example path for movement/rotation of a cupfrom a cup source through the cup dispenser shown in FIG. 13, inaccordance with some example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 13C illustrates an example food service environment with a foodservice provider and the example cup dispenser shown in FIG. 13, inaccordance with some example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 13D illustrates an example printed cup, in accordance with someexample embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 13E illustrates a scenario where the a food service providerprepares the food service order in the printed cup, in accordance withsome example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 13F illustrates a scenario where a customer is able to easilylocate her food service order using the printed cup, in accordance withsome example embodiments discussed herein;

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an example control system forcontrolling one or more additional dispensers/components/systems, suchas various example front or back-of-house dispensers, in accordance withexample embodiments described herein; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for providingon-demand food service material printing for food service, in accordancewith some embodiments discussed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafterwith reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allexample embodiments are shown. Indeed, the examples described andpictured herein should not be construed as being limiting as to thescope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather,these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure willsatisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer tolike elements throughout.

Example On-Demand Food Service Material Printing System

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an example on-demand food servicematerial printing system 10 for food service. The depicted system 10includes a number of modules, architectures, systems, and/or devicesthat are configured to work together to perform various functions,including providing on-demand food service material printing. In thedepicted embodiment, the system 10 includes a control architecture 15,food request system(s) 80 (e.g., point-of-sale (POS) system(s)),dispenser(s)/printer(s) 70, an external network 12, and other system(s)90 (e.g., front of house (FOH) or back-of-house (BOH) system(s)).

In some embodiments, various controllers, including for example from thecontrol architecture 15, the food request 80, thedispenser(s)/printer(s) 70, the other system(s) 90, or a remote computerserver, may be configured to communicate with and/or control operationof various components of the system 10 such as according to variousfunctions/modules described herein. In such a regard, while the depictedembodiment shows various particular modules, architectures, systems,and/or devices, some embodiments of the present invention contemplatemany variations, including additional modules, architectures, systems,and/or devices and/or combinations in whole or part thereof.Additionally, while much of the described examples are detailed forprinting on food wrap, some embodiments of the present invention arecontemplated for extension into other food service material printing,including, for example, food wrap, food containers, cups, carry-outbags, tray liners, napkins, pouches, among many other things.

The control architecture 15 may include one or more modules that areconfigured to perform various functions of the system 10. In thedepicted embodiment, the control architecture 15 includes a food requestmodule 20, an order personalization module 30, a food service materialprinting module 40, a predictive data analytics module 50, and acontroller module 60. Though shown as distinct modules, some modules maybe configured to share functionality. Likewise, various combinations offunctionality is contemplated across the various modules.

As described in more detail herein, the control architecture 15 provideslogic and control functionality used during utilization of the variousmodules and/or systems of the on-demand food service material printingsystem 10. The control architecture 15 and/or its various modules maycomprise (or be connected to) hardware and software to enableperformance of various functions described herein. Along these lines,the modules may share functionality across distinct hardware (e.g.,among various servers, controllers, various systems described herein(e.g., food request system(s), printer(s), other system(s)), etc.)including in different locations and/or different apparatuses.

The control architecture 15 may comprise one or more suitable electronicdevice(s)/server(s) capable of executing described functionality viahardware and/or software control. In some embodiments, the controlarchitecture 15 may include one or more user interfaces (not shown),such as for displaying information and/or accepting instructions. Thecontrol architecture 15 can be, but is not limited to, a microprocessor,microcomputer, a minicomputer, an optical computer, a board computer, acomplex instruction set computer, an ASIC (application specificintegrated circuit), a reduced instruction set computer, an analogcomputer, a digital computer, a molecular computer, a quantum computer,a cellular computer, a solid-state computer, a single-board computer, abuffered computer, a computer network, a desktop computer, a laptopcomputer, a personal digital assistant (PDA) or a hybrid of any of theforegoing.

The control architecture 15 may be configured to communicate withvarious components of the system 10, such as directly or through anexternal network 12. In some embodiments, the control architecture 15may be operably coupled with one or more components of the system 10,including for example, the food request system(s) 80,dispenser(s)/printer(s) 70, other system(s) 90, controllers, processors,communication interfaces, and other components (such as describedherein) to provide functionality for the system 10. For example,depending on the components, the control architecture 15 may be operablycoupled such as through use of solid-core wiring, twisted pair wiring,coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, mechanical, wireless, radio, infrared,or any other suitable connection. In this regard, depending on thecomponents, the operable coupling may be through one or moreintermediate controllers or mechanical coupling, such as used forcontrolling some components (e.g., controlling operation of theprinter(s) 70). In some embodiments, the control architecture 15 may beconfigured to provide one or more operating signals to these componentsand to receive data from these components.

The control architecture 15 may include one or more processors coupledto a memory device. Control architecture 15 may optionally be connectedto one or more input/output (I/O) controllers or data interface devices(not shown). The memory may be any suitable form of memory such as anEPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) chip, a flash memorychip, a disk drive, or the like. As such, the memory may store variousdata, protocols, instructions, computer program code, operationalparameters, etc. In this regard, controller may include operationcontrol methods embodied in application code. These methods are embodiedin computer instructions written to be executed by one or moreprocessors, typically in the form of software. The software can beencoded in any suitable language, including, but not limited to, machinelanguage, assembly language, VHDL (Verilog Hardware DescriptionLanguage), VHSIC HDL (Very High Speed IC Hardware Description Language),Fortran (formula translation), C, C++, Visual C++, Java, ALGOL(algorithmic language), BASIC (beginners all-purpose symbolicinstruction code), visual BASIC, ActiveX, HTML (HyperText MarkupLanguage), and any combination or derivative of at least one of theforegoing. Additionally, an operator can use an existing softwareapplication such as a spreadsheet or database and correlate variouscells with the variables enumerated in the algorithms. Furthermore, thesoftware can be independent of other software or dependent upon othersoftware, such as in the form of integrated software. In this regard, insome embodiments, the control architecture 15 may be configured toexecute computer program code instructions to perform aspects of variousembodiments of the present invention described herein.

In some embodiments described herein, various components (e.g., modules,systems, architectures) of the system 10 may be configured to determinevarious things. As used herein, “determine” is not meant to be limitingand may include, for example, determining a selection, determiningsomething from one or more instructions, generating something.

Example Food Request/Module and/or Systems

The control architecture 15, such as through the food request module 20,is configured to receive a request for food service by a customer, suchas from one or more food request systems 80. The request for foodservice may include order information corresponding to a food order bythe customer. Such a food order may include any consumable (e.g., adrink) and is not meant to be limiting.

In some embodiments, the request may include a purchase (e.g., a sale, autilization of loyalty points, etc.) for the request, such as using apoint-of-sale system. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of therequest may not include a purchase. For example, the food request may berequested in conjunction with a non-purchase program (e.g.,all-inclusive resort, charity, etc.) and, thus, no purchase or sale maybe required.

In some embodiments, a customer may provide one or more custom ordercharacteristics along with the request for food service. Example customorder characteristics may include order preferences, dietarypreferences, exceptions to a standard food order (e.g., extra cheese orno tomatoes), among others.

The food request module 20 may be further configured to determine orderinformation based on the request for food service. For example, the foodrequest module 20 may determine one or more food orders (e.g., food ordrink items) that the customer has requested. Additionally, the foodrequest module 20 may determine one or more custom characteristics thatare specific to the request, such as being related to one or more of thefood orders for the request.

Depending on the configuration of the food service and/or store for foodservice, example on-demand food service material printing systems 10 mayinclude one or more food request systems for interaction with acustomer. Some example food request systems 80 include a self-orderkiosk, a point-of-sale (POS) operator terminal, an application stored ona remote device (such as a customer's personal device), and a computerserver.

With reference to FIG. 2, an example food request system 80 may comprisehardware and/or software capable of performing one or more functionsdescribed herein. In this regard, the food request system 80 may includea controller 82, a memory 84, a communication interface 86, and a userinterface 88.

The controller 82 may be any means configured to execute variousprogrammed operations or instructions stored in a memory device such asa device or circuitry operating in accordance with software or otherwiseembodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, therebyconfiguring the device or circuitry to perform the correspondingfunctions of the controller 82 as described herein. In this regard, thecontroller 82 may be configured to receive one or more requests for afood order from a customer, such as through the user interface 88.Additionally, in some embodiments, the controller 82 may receive and/ordetermine additional information regarding the customer (e.g.,personalization information). The controller 82 may also be configuredto send gathered information and/or instructions to other devices,systems, or modules to perform various functions described herein. Insome embodiments, the controller 82 may be configured to operateaccording to one or more modules described herein.

The memory 84 may be configured to store instructions, computer programcode, order data (e.g., order information), personalization information,and other data/information associated with the food request system 80 ina non-transitory computer readable medium for use, such as by thecontroller 82.

The communication interface 86 may be configured to enable connection toexternal systems (e.g., an external network 12, one or moredispenser(s)/printer(s) 70, a customer's mobile device, a computerserver, the control architecture 15, and/or one or more othersystem(s)/device(s)). In some embodiments, the communication interface86 may comprise one or more transmitters configured to transmit, forexample, one or more signals according to example embodiments describedherein. Likewise, the communication interface 86 may include at leastone receiver configured to, for example, receive data according toexample embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, thetransmitter and receiver may be combined as a transceiver. In thisregard, the food request system may be configured for wired and/orwireless communication. In some embodiments, the communication interface86 may comprise wireless capabilities for WiFi, Bluetooth, or otherwireless protocols. In some embodiments, the food request system 80 maybe connected, such as through Bluetooth, to one or more printer(s) 70such as to enable performance of various functions herein.

The user interface 88 may be configured to receive input from a userand/or provide output to a user. The user interface 88 may include, forexample, a display, a keyboard, keypad, function keys, mouse, scrollingdevice, input/output ports, touch screen, or any other mechanism bywhich a user may interface with the system. Although the user interface88 is shown as being directly connected to the controller 82 and withinthe food request system 80, the user interface 88 could alternatively beremote from the controller 82 and/or food request system 80. Likewise,in some embodiments, other components of the food request/POS system 80could be remotely located.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example food service environment 100 where acustomer 125 has placed a request for a food service with a food serviceemployee 185 that is using a POS operator terminal 181. In the depictedillustration, the customer 125 has ordered a hamburger (e.g., a foodorder) with no tomatoes and no pickles (e.g., custom ordercharacteristics). In response, the food service employee 185 has enteredthe request into the POS operator terminal 181. In such an example, thefood request module 20 receives the request for food service from thePOS operator terminal 181.

FIG. 2B illustrates a similar request for food service by a customer 125at a self-order kiosk 182. In the illustration, the customer 125 selectsthe food order 121 (e.g., a hamburger) and provides one or more customcharacteristics (e.g., no tomatoes). In such an example, the foodrequest module 20 receives the request for food service from theself-order kiosk 182.

FIG. 2C illustrates two example ordering options, namely a self-orderkiosk 182′ and a customer's personal device 183. In this regard, in someembodiments, the customer 125 may submit a request for food servicethrough a remote device, such as a mobile phone device 183. That requestmay then be provided to the food request module 20 such as through anapplication on the user's mobile device or through a computer server(e.g., through an online ordering system).

As noted herein, although the above descriptions detail examples of aself-order kiosk, a POS operator terminal, and an application on auser's mobile device, other food request systems are contemplated byvarious example embodiments. For example, a user may place a foodrequest through an online ordering system. In such an example, orthrough other contemplated food request systems (e.g., self-order kiosk,application, POS operator terminal, etc.), the food service request maybe received through a computer server (e.g., an external network) thatmay be connected to the system 10.

Example Personalization Information

The control architecture 15, such as through the order personalizationmodule 30, is configured to determine personalization informationrelated to the customer or store. Some example personalizationinformation includes the customer's name, preferences, allergies,order/customer profile, other identifiers, preferred language(s), orderhistory, social media data, other external data (including purchase andtrend data), among other things.

In some embodiments, the personalization information may be gathered invarious different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the customermay provide personalization information during the request. In someembodiments, personal information may be gathered based on the request.For example, the customer may be signed in to a profile during submittalof the request. In some embodiments, the personalization information maybe gathered from purchase information provided during purchase of thefood service (e.g., from the credit card, an account for the customer, aloyalty card, etc.). In some embodiments, personalization informationmay be gathered from publicly available data related to the customer,such as through social media, other databases, etc. In some embodiments,personalization information may be gathered, such as with the permissionof the customer, from one or more personal devices of the customer—suchas data stored on the device (e.g., pictures, profile data, history,online data, etc.). In some embodiments, the personalization informationmay be related to the location (e.g., region, the specific store, city,etc.) associated with the customer and/or the request for food service.

Example Print Module and Print Determination

The control architecture 15, such as through the food service materialprinting module 40, is configured to determine print information toprint on one or more food service material items. In this regard, insome embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 isconfigured to communicate with one or more printers 70 to cause theprint information to be printed on the food service material item(s)using the one or more printers 70.

In some embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 isconfigured to determine, based on the order information from the foodrequest module 20, order print information to print on at least one foodservice material item. In some embodiments, the order print informationincludes at least the food order and one or more custom characteristicsthat are specific to the request for food service. For example, FIG. 3shows an example dispenser/printer 271 that is configured to print on afood service material item (e.g., a food wrap 275). In the depictedembodiment, the food service material printing module 40 has determinedthe order print information 242 to include an order number (“Order#126”), an indication of the food order (“#4 Meal”), and a custom ordercharacteristic (“No Tomatos”).

In some embodiments, the order print information may include other orderrelated information, such as ingredients and/or nutritional information.For example, the calorie count may be determined based on choseningredients and printed onto the food service material. In some suchembodiments, the “basic”, “common”, or “advertised” make-up (e.g.,ingredients) of the ordered food service item may form a base levelcalorie count. From there, the customization of the ingredients may befactored into the calorie count to produce a customized calorie count.In some embodiments, the base level calorie count and/or custom caloriecount may be printed on the food service material for the consumer.

In some embodiments, the order print information may be designed to bepresented to the customer with the food order. For example, the orderprint information (or a portion thereof) may be visible to the customerupon the customer receiving the food order. In such an exampleembodiment with the order print information printed on the food servicematerial item, the customer may feel confident in the accuracy of theirfood order.

Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more foodservice people may use the order print information during assembly offood order, thereby increasing accuracy of the food order. In thisregard, in some embodiments, the order print information may be printedon the food service material item in a position or orientation such thatit can be utilized during assembly of the food order by the food serviceperson. For example, in some embodiments, the order print informationmay be printed in a backwards direction (e.g., the letters arebackwards) such that a food service person can read the order printinformation when the food service material item is flipped over. Forexample, FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate example food service material items 375(e.g., food wrap sheets for a hamburger) that have order printinformation 342 printed on an outer surface (e.g., a surface designed toface the customer after assembly). As such, the food service person mayflip the food service material item 375 over to start assembling thefood order thereon (e.g., on the inner surface). In some embodiments,the order print information 342 (“ROAST TURKEY RANCH & BACON NO TOMATO,NO ONION, EXTRA BACON”) is visible with the letters in the properreading direction with the food service material item flipped over. Forexample, the food service material item may be at least partiallytranslucent. Further, with being positioned near an edge of the foodservice material item, the order print information 342 may remainvisible while the food order is being assembled in the center. FIG. 4Eprovides another example, wherein the order print information 342′ isprinted on the inside surface such that the food service person 318 canread the order print information during assembly of the food order. Suchexample embodiments may help ensure order accuracy, as a food serviceperson may not need to constantly look back and forth between a monitorand the food order.

In some embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 maydetermine other example instructions for a food service person. Forexample, arrows or other order preparation instructions may be printedon the food service material to help a food service person complete anorder. In some embodiments, a desired direction/orientation of theprinted food service material item during order preparation may be takeninto account such that the arrows/instructions show a food serviceperson where to begin wrapping and/or unfolding (if the food servicematerial item is pre-folded).

In some embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 maydetermine any form of communication to utilize for the order printinformation. For example, while example text is shown in FIGS. 4A-4E,other forms of communication are contemplated, such as icons with “X”sthrough them (e.g., an “X” through an image of a tomato), images, etc.

Similarly, in some embodiments, only positive ingredients may be printedon the food service material (e.g., only ingredients that the foodservice operator will need to add to complete the order). Such anexample may help ensure the proper ingredients are utilized, not needingto rely on the memory of the food service operator.

In some embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 isconfigured to determine, based on the personalization information fromthe order personalization module 30, personalization print informationto print on at least one food service material item. In someembodiments, the personalization print information includespersonalization information and/or advertisement information. Forexample, FIG. 3 shows an example dispenser 271 that is configured toprint on a food service material item (e.g., a food wrap 275). In thedepicted embodiment, the food service material printing module 40 hasdetermined the personalization print information 244 a to include agreeting with the customer's name (“Hey David!”), a personalize message(“Good luck on exams this week!”), and an advertisement/promotion (“Howabout 15% off of a cup of coffee for your next study break”).Additionally, the food service material printing module 40 hasdetermined the personalization print information 244 b to include animage, such as may be any image including, for example, a logo from afavorite or local sports team, college, etc., a picture from the cameraroll of the customer, or other image. Although shown as “David” in theabove example, in some embodiments, the customer's name may be anyidentifier for the customer, e.g., their name, their nickname, theirfirst name, an avatar, a screen name, a user id, etc.

In this regard, in some embodiments, the personalization printinformation may be any suitable image, text, icon, etc. It may berelated to the customer, the store, the location, or any otherpersonalization feature. FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate example food servicematerial items 375 (e.g., food wrap sheets for a hamburger) that havepersonalization print information printed on an outer surface (e.g., asurface designed to face the customer after assembly). For example, FIG.4A shows personalization print information 344 that includes thecustomer name in relation to order information. FIG. 4B showspersonalization print information 344′ that includes the customer namein relation to a limited time offer (LTO) 381. FIG. 4C showspersonalization print information 344″ that includes the customer namein relation to an advertisement/service announcement/request for charityassistance 382. FIG. 4D shows personalization print information 344′″that includes the customer name in relation to a promotion offer 383.

In some embodiments, the food service material item for printing mayinclude pre-printed information. In such example embodiments, the orderprint information and/or personalization print information may beprinted on the food service material item with the pre-printedinformation. In some such embodiments, the order print informationand/or personalization print information may need to account for suchpre-printed information such as in content and/or positioning on thefood service material item.

In some embodiments, the personalization print information may bedetermined based on any number of factors. For example, thepersonalization print information may be determined to include one ormore targeted messages and/or advertisements based on past habits (e.g.,order history, time of orders, etc.) or projected habits of thecustomer. Additionally or alternatively, the food service business maywish to “push” or promote certain products or time windows forcustomers, which may be considered in determination of thepersonalization print information. Other possible factors include, forexample, related/sister businesses (e.g., cross marketing), limited timeoffers, promotional offers, products or time windows for that storeand/or corresponding location (e.g., region), preferences of thecustomer, etc. For example, the food service business may want topromote cheeseburgers in the region, because barbeque sandwiches arecurrently popular at that location.

In some embodiments, the personalization print information and/or orderprint information may be determined to be printed in a preferredlanguage of the customer. In some embodiments, the preferred languagemay be determined from the personalization information. In someembodiments, the preferred language may be determined based on thelocation of the store in which the food order was requested. Similarly,in some embodiments, the personalization print information and/or orderprint information may be determined to be printed in brail, such as toaccommodate the customer. For example, divots, imprints, or otherfeatures may be employed by the printer to manipulate the food servicematerial item to product brail. In some embodiments, the determinationto use brail may be based on the personalization information regardingthe customer.

In some embodiments, the personalization print information may bedetermined in real-time, such as while the food service request is beingprocessed. In this regard, updated information can be utilized at thetime the food service request is being placed. This allows currentinformation to be utilized in determining what to print on the foodservice material item. For example, the food service business may havejust come up with a new promotion. Once the system is updated with theavailable new promotion, it can be used by the on-demand food servicematerial printing system 10. This avoids the previous long logisticstime frame it took from a decision to implement a new promotion toavailable food service material with the new promotion. Instead, theupdate may be instantaneous. For example, FIG. 5A illustrates a commonprior logistics flow 600 from creation of a promotion 602 to supplying astore with promotional material 606. That logistics flow would oftentake at least 90 days. FIG. 5B, however, illustrates an examplelogistics flow 600′ according to various example on-demand food servicematerial printing systems. That logistics flow 600′ is almost instantfrom creation of a promotion 602 to availability of personalizationprint information for printing on the food service material item at 614and for providing to the customer at 616.

In some embodiments, the control architecture 15 may include anadvertisement module configured to determine one or more advertisements(e.g., a promotion, limited time offer, etc.) to print on the foodservice material item. In some embodiments, the advertisement module maywork in conjunction with or replace portions of the food servicematerial printing module 40.

In some embodiments, the control architecture 15, such as through thepredictive data analytics module 50 and/or food service materialprinting module 40, may be configured to determine one or more messagesand/or advertisements to provide to the customer based on thepersonalization information. In some embodiments, the predictiveanalytics module 50 and/or food service material printing module 40 maytake into account gathered order information and/or personalizationinformation from a plurality of food order requests. Such consideredorder and/or personalization information may be bounded/limitedaccording to a time threshold (e.g., between 11 am-3 pm, within the last30 days, etc.) and/or location threshold (e.g., just this store, storeswithin 25 miles, etc.).

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may be configured to determine amessage to provide based on a determined product, time window,promotion, limited-time-offer, etc. For example, the food servicebusiness may determine that they wish to “push” customer traffic in thestore after 5 pm. The predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may determine, such as based on thecustomer history, that the customer that just placed an order usuallyorders chicken strips between 11 am-3 pm. Additionally, the predictivedata analytics module 50 and/or food service material printing module 40may determine that the food service business wants to drive in customersafter 5 pm. In such a situation, the predictive data analytics module 50and/or food service material printing module 40 may determine a messagethat provides a promotional offer for chicken strips, but only after 5pm—thereby personalizing the offer to the customer (as the customernormally orders chicken strips), but incentivizing the customer to cometo the store for dinner (e.g., after 5 pm per the food service business'wishes). In response, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/orfood service material printing module 40 may provide the determinedmessage to the control architecture 15, other modules, and/or othersystems/devices (e.g., one or more dispenser(s)/printer(s) 70) to havethe determined message printed on the food service material item forpresentation to the customer with their food order.

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may be configured to determine amessage to provide from among a plurality of messages. Such adetermination may be based on a prediction of what type of message maydrive a desired output from the customer. For example, certain products,time windows, promotions, or limited-time-offers may be associated witha set of available messages for driving customer action. Each of themessages in the set may approach that goal differently. For example, afirst message (message 1) may provide a percentage off the product as anincentive; a second message (message 2) may offer a percentage off arelated product that is often purchased with the product; or a thirdmessage (message 3) may offer extra loyalty reward points for purchasingthe product. In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module50 and/or food service material printing module 40 may be configured todetermine which of the messages to use for the specific customer thatjust placed an order based on personalization information and/or orderinformation. For example, if the customer is close to reaching athreshold for their loyalty reward points, the predictive data analyticsmodule 50 and/or food service material printing module 40 may determinethat message 3 should be used to attempt to drive the customer topurchase the product (and reach a desirable loyalty reward pointthreshold). In response, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/orfood service material printing module 40 may provide the determinedmessage to the control architecture 15, other modules, and/or othersystems/devices (e.g., one or more dispenser(s)/printer(s) 70) to havethe determined message printed on the food service material item forpresentation to the customer with their food order.

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 may beconfigured to determine one or more messages to provide to a third-partybased on a plurality of requests for food service. For example, thepredictive data analytics module 50 may consider a plurality of requestsfor food service during a specific time period and/or for a specificlocation/region and determine that a delivery service may likely requirecertain packaging needs (e.g., a certain number of heaters, bags, etc.).The predictive data analytics module 50 may be configured to send thatinformation to the third party.

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may be configured to determine printinformation (e.g., personalization print information) that includes gamefeatures, such as game pieces. For example, the game pieces could bedetermined and printed on-demand, thereby removing such game pieces frominventory storage and limiting lost pieces/winning potential. This mayalso enable tracking of “winning” pieces, such as being able to link thewinning game piece with a customer—since the customer that purchased thewinning piece may be determined from the request for food service.

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may be configured to determine printinformation (e.g., personalization print information) that can berecognized by a user's device (e.g., through image recognition and/orcomputer readable marker detection such as quick response codes). Insuch example embodiments, an image and/or message may be printed on thefood service material item and a customer may utilize their mobiledevice to interact with the printed information, such as by using acamera to perform image recognition of the printed image and/or message.In response, an application and/or message may be downloaded to and/orpresented on their mobile device based on recognition of the printedimage and/or message. The printed image and/or message may be determinedbased on personalization information such that it is targeted toward thecustomer.

In some embodiments, the predictive data analytics module 50 and/or foodservice material printing module 40 may be configured to determine printinformation (e.g., personalization print information) based on thelocation of the customer and/or store. For example, one or more messagescould be determined to target a nearby promotion, event, store, etc. Insuch a regard, the location of the customer at the time of the requestand/or the location of the store for picking up the food order may beutilized in determination of the print information.

In some embodiments, the system may be configured to enable printing ofinformation related to storage or other functions that may be useful forthe store. For example, the system may be configured to enable printingon food service material items that may be used by the store, such asfor storage. In such a regard, the printer may be configured to printrelevant storage data, such as a package date, what food item is beingstored, a use by date, etc.

In some embodiments, the system may be configured to enable reprintingof the food service material item, such as if an error occurred or thefood service material item was accidently dropped on the floor. In somesuch embodiments, an operator may request the “last” print job, acertain order number, or other identifier to cause the relevant foodservice material item to be reprinted. In some such embodiments, theprinter may be configured to receive voice commands, such as to enablereprinting. For example, a food service person may say “Printer, reprintthe last order” or “Reprint Order 271”. In response, the printer mayreprint the appropriate printed information on a new food servicematerial item.

Example Printing and Printers

FIG. 6 illustrates example on-demand printing on a food service materialitem and packaging of a food order. In the depicted embodiment, adispenser/printer 471 has printed and dispensed a food service materialitem 475 a (e.g., a food wrap for a hamburger). The food servicematerial item 475 a includes personalization print information 444 andorder print information (not shown), such as described herein. The foodservice person 418 is able to retrieve the printed food service materialitem 475 a and (as shown with respect to a second printed food servicematerial item 475 b) wrap the food order (e.g., the hamburger 421) forthe food service request. The result is a packaged food order 479 withpersonalization print information and/or order information printed andpresented to the customer with their food order.

Though the above described example details an example printed foodservice material item of food wrap, many different food service materialitems are contemplated for such on-demand printing with example systemsdescribed herein. In such a regard, depending on the available ordesired food service material item, the one or more printer(s) 70 may beconfigured to enable printing thereon (e.g., utilize the proper ink forthe material, store the desired material for the food service materialitem, etc.).

Some example contemplated food service material items include a foodwrap (e.g., paper, foil, partially translucent paper, etc.) for wrappingthe food order, a pouch for at least partially containing or coveringthe food order, a container for at least partially containing orcovering the food order, a cup for holding or at least partiallycontaining the food order, a tray liner for use with the food order, abag (e.g., in store bag, carry out bag, etc.) for at least partiallycontaining the food order, or a napkin for use with the food order. Insome embodiments, the food service material item may be one or more foodpackages that are configured to at least partially cover or contain thefood order. Example food packages may include, at least, food wrap forwrapping the food order, container(s) for at least partially containingor covering the food order, a cup for holding or at least partiallycontaining the food order, a pouch for at least partially containing orcovering the food order, a bag for at least partially containing thefood order, among others.

With reference to FIG. 7, an example dispenser (e.g., printer) 70 maycomprise hardware and/or software capable of performing functionsdescribed herein. In this regard, the dispenser 70 may include acontroller 72, a motor 72 a, a memory 74, a communication interface 76,a user interface 78, one or more food service material item supplies 79a, 79 b, one or more print devices 75, one or more dispensing mechanisms71, and one or more sensor(s) 77.

The controller 72 may be any means configured to execute variousprogrammed operations or instructions stored in a memory device such asa device or circuitry operating in accordance with software or otherwiseembodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, therebyconfiguring the device or circuitry to perform the correspondingfunctions of the controller 72 as described herein. In this regard, thecontroller 72 may be configured to receive one or more instructions forprinting, such as through the communication interface 76. In someembodiments, the controller 72 may configured to determine, process,and/or choose the determined food service material item from among aplurality of available food service material items (e.g., either a firstfood service material item from supply 79 a or a second food servicematerial items from supply 79 b). In some embodiments, the controller 72may configured to cause printing on one or more food service materialitems (such as through the print device(s) 75). In some embodiments, thecontroller 72 is configured to cause dispensing of the printed foodservice material item, such as using the dispensing mechanism 71. Insome embodiments, the controller 72 may cause monitoring, such asthrough sensor(s) 77, of supply materials of the printer (such as inkfor the print devices 75 and/or food service material item from thesupplies 79 a, 79 b). The controller 72 may also be configured to sendgathered information and/or instructions to other devices, systems, ormodules to perform various functions described herein. In someembodiments, the controller 72 may be configured to operate according toone or more modules described herein. For example, in some embodiments,the controller 72 may be configured to operate according to the controlarchitecture 15, such as the food service material printing module 40.

One or more motors 72 a may be used to operate variousfeatures/components of the dispenser 70. In some embodiments, thecontroller 72 may be configured to operate the motor 72 a accordingly.For example, one or more motors 72 a may be used to drive one or morerollers (or roll holders) to cause food service material to move throughthe dispenser 70, such as to interact with the print devices 75,dispensing mechanism 71, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 72 maybe configured to control the motor 72 a to cause dispensing of a foodservice material item, such as a sheet of food service material of aspecific size.

The one or more food service material item supplies 79 a, 79 b may beconfigured to hold and/or store one or more food service material itemsupplies. For example, the dispenser 70, depending on the configuration,may be configured to hold various supplies, such as rolls of foodservice material, sheets of food service material, stacks of foodservice material items, etc. In the depicted embodiment, the dispenser70 includes two supplies 79 a, 79 b. In some embodiments, the supplies79 a, 79 b may hold the same type of food service material item (e.g.,both may hold a same food wrap). In such a situation, the dispenser 70may be enabled to switch to dispensing and printing from a primarysupply to a secondary supply when the primary supply is depleted. Insome embodiments, the supplies 79 a, 79 b may hold different types offood service material items (e.g., two different types of the samematerial, two different materials, such as two different types of foodwrap, or two different types of material items, such as a food wrap anda container, among other possibilities). In some embodiments with twodifferent types of the same material, the material for each may havedifferent material characteristics, such as composition, weight,dimensions, etc. In some such embodiments, the dispenser 70 may beconfigured to choose which supply to use for printing and dispensing. Insome embodiments, the food service material printing module 40 may beconfigured to determine which type of food service material item toprint on, and instruct the dispenser 70 accordingly.

The one or more print devices 75 may be configured to print on one ormore food service material items, such as from one of the supplies 79 a,79 b. In some embodiments, the print device 75 includes ink that enablesthe printing, such as provided from one or more ink cartridges, tanks,reservoirs, etc. In some embodiments, the print devices 75 and/ordispenser 70 may be configured such that only proprietary ink cartridgesmay be utilized with the dispenser 70 (e.g., non-proprietary inkcartridges may be locked out). The ink may be specially configured basedon the food service material item, desired print quality, or otherfactors (e.g., safety, durability, etc.). In some embodiments, the printdevice(s) 75 may be configured to utilize different printcharacteristics for different types of food material items (e.g.,different types of the same material, different materials, such asdifferent types of food wrap, or different types of material items, suchas a food wrap and a container, among other possibilities). For example,depending on which food service material item is selected for printing(such as from among two options), the print device(s) 75 may beconfigured to employ different print characteristics, such as differentink, different settings, different components (e.g., rollers and/orpresses), etc.

In some embodiments, the print devices 75 are configured to print theorder print information and the personalization print information on thefood service material item(s). In some embodiments, the print devices 75may include rollers, presses, or other hardware necessary for performingthe printing. In some embodiments, the print devices 75 may beconfigured to print on multiple surfaces of the food service materialitem. For example, the print device 75 may be configured to print orderprint information on a first surface and personalization printinformation on a second, opposite surface.

The one or more dispensing mechanisms 71 may be configured to causedispensing of printed food service material items. In some embodiments,the dispenser 70 may include rollers, transfer systems, or otherhardware for effecting transfer of the food service material itemthrough the components of the dispenser and out of the dispenser for thefood service provider/person (e.g., along a path through the dispenser).In some embodiments, the dispenser 70 may include one or more chutes forguiding the food service material, such as toward a dispensing slot.

In some embodiments, the dispensing mechanism 71 may include one or morecutting arrangements (e.g., knives, tear bars, etc.) that are configuredto cause or enable cutting of the printed food service material item,such as for dispensing. For example, the dispenser may include a cuttingdevice configured to cut the food service material, and the dispensermay be configured to at least one of cut or enable removal of a portionof the roll of food service material to form a printed food servicematerial sheet. The printed food service material sheet may include theorder print information and/or the personalization print information.Further, the dispenser may be configured to dispense the printed foodservice material sheet for use. In some embodiments, there may bedifferent cutting arrangement options depending on which food servicematerial item is chosen for printing and dispensing.

In some embodiments, the dispensing mechanism 71 may be configured tocut a roll of food service material at a determined dimension (e.g.,length and/or width) to cause a printed food service material sheet of adesired size (which may vary depending on the corresponding food order)to be available for dispensing. For example, the dispenser may includeat least one knife configured to cut the roll of food service material,and the dispenser may be configured to cut the roll of food servicematerial at one of a plurality of lengths or widths to form the printedfood service material sheet such that the printed food service materialsheet has dimensions that are specific to the food order.

In some embodiments, the dispensing mechanism 71 may comprise one ormore tear bars that are positioned within the dispenser (such asproximate a dispensing chute) to enable an operator to utilize the tearbar to enable removal of the printed food service material sheet.

In some embodiments, the roll of food service material may include oneor more sets of perforations (e.g., pre-cut perforations periodicallypositioned on the roll) to enable removal of the portion of the roll offood service material. In some such embodiments, the dispenser may beconfigured to print the desired print information on portions of theroll of food service material between sets of perforations, such as toenable removal of a printed sheet that includes the order printinformation and/or the personalization print information.

In some embodiments, the dispensing mechanism 71 may comprise one ormore separator devices that are configured to separate the portion ofthe roll of food service material that includes the printed information.For example, the one or more separator devices may be configured toseparate pre-cut/perforated portions of the roll of food servicematerial.

The one or more sensor(s) 77 may be configured to monitor variouscomponents or supplies from the dispenser 70. For example, in someembodiments, the one or more sensors 77 may be configured to monitor theavailable ink for the print device(s) 75. In such embodiments, thecontroller 72, such as through one or more modules of the system 10(e.g., the food service printing module 40), may determine whenreplacement ink is needed and, in some cases, perform automatic orderingthereof. Similarly, in some embodiments, the one or more sensors 77 maybe configured to monitor the available food service material itemsupply, such as from supplies 79 a, 79 b. In such embodiments, thecontroller 72 may determine when replacement food service material itemsare needed and, in some cases, perform automatic ordering thereof. Insome embodiments, the controller 72 may provide one or moremessages/indications to be sent to the food service business indicatinga need to supply more ink or food service material items for thedispenser 70.

The memory 74 may be configured to store instructions, computer programcode, order data (e.g., order information), order print information,personalization information, personalization print information, andother data/information associated with the dispenser 70 in anon-transitory computer readable medium for use, such as by thecontroller 72.

The communication interface 76 may be configured to enable connection toexternal systems (e.g., an external network 12, one or more food requestsystems 80, one or more dispenser(s) 70, a customer's mobile device, acomputer server, the control architecture 15, and/or one or more othersystem(s)/device(s)). In some embodiments, the communication interface76 may comprise one or more transmitters configured to transmit, forexample, one or more signals according to example embodiments describedherein. Likewise, the communication interface 76 may include at leastone receiver configured to, for example, receive data according toexample embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, thetransmitter and receiver may be combined as a transceiver. In thisregard, the dispenser 70 may be configured for wired and/or wirelesscommunication. In some embodiments, the communication interface 76 maycomprise wireless capabilities for WiFi, Bluetooth, or other wirelessprotocols. In some embodiments, the dispenser 70 may be connected, suchas through Bluetooth, to one or more food request/POS system(s) 80 suchas to enable performance of various functions herein.

The user interface 78 may be configured to receive input from a userand/or provide output to a user. The user interface 78 may include, forexample, a display, a keyboard, keypad, function keys, mouse, scrollingdevice, input/output ports, touch screen, or any other mechanism bywhich a user may interface with the system. Although the user interface78 is shown as being directly connected to the controller 72 and withinthe dispenser 70, the user interface 78 could alternatively be remotefrom the controller 72 and/or dispenser 70. Likewise, in someembodiments, other components of the dispenser 70 could be remotelylocated.

As noted herein, various example embodiments may be utilized withdifferent types of food service material items, such as food wrap, foodcontainers, cups, carry-out bags, tray liners, napkins, pouches, amongmany others. In this regard, some example dispensers are designed todispense and print on pre-folded food service material, such aspre-folded food wrap, pre-formed food bags, pre-formed food pouches,pre-formed food containers, etc. In some embodiments, the pre-foldedwrap may form a “C” fold. A pre-folded food wrap may be useful forformation of the food service order (e.g., wrapping a burger). Anotherpotential advantage of being configured to utilize pre-folded food wrapis a decrease in overall width needed for the dispenser and/or printdevices. In this regard, the dispenser and/or print device may be keptto a desirable size (e.g., maintain a small footprint), such that it canbe easily utilized/positioned in a food service line.

In some embodiments, the pre-folded food wrap may be used to form thefood service material item after dispensing from the dispenser 70. Forexample, a food service person may glue and/or fold the pre-folded,printed wrap to form a food bag, container, pouch, etc. Alternatively,in some embodiments, the pre-folded food wrap may be unfolded, such asby the food service person or the dispenser to enable use thereafter.

In some embodiments, the adhesive application, folding, and/or unfoldingmay occur within the dispenser 70, such as using an adhesive applicationdevice/folding and/or unfolding device 95. Such example dispensers 70are shown in FIG. 7A (with the adhesive application/folding/unfoldingdevice 95 downstream of the print device 75) and in FIG. 7B (with theadhesive application/folding/unfolding device 95 upstream of the printdevice 75). In some example embodiments, the adhesive application devicemay apply adhesive to specific sections of the sheet of food servicematerial, such as using a roller, stamp, or other application device. Insome example embodiments, the folding device may utilize one or morefolding structures, such as rollers, stamps, or other suitable devices,to cause folding and pressure to be applied at appropriate sections ofthe sheet of food service material (e.g., in conjunction with theadhesive) to cause formation of a food service material item, such as afood bag, food pouch, food container, etc. In some embodiments, theunfolding device may utilize one or more unfolding structures, such asbars, presses, rails, counteracting crease structures, etc., to cause atleast a portion of the folded food service material to become unfolded(or less folded).

In some embodiments, various combinations of the above noted adhesiveapplication devices, folding devices, and unfolding devices may bepresent in the dispenser. In some embodiments, different paths could beprovided that enable variation in how the food service material isprocessed through the dispenser 70. For example, certain food servicematerial items may be glued at the adhesive application device (e.g.,and/or folded or unfolded prior thereto), while other certain foodservice material may be processed only through a folding device orunfolding device prior to dispensing.

FIG. 7C illustrates another example dispenser designed specifically foron-demand printing and dispensing of cups for use in a food serviceorder. While the depicted dispenser 70 includes a Cup Source Stack 1 79a′ and Cup Source Stack 2 79 b′, other cup source options arecontemplated, such as lines of cups, a single cup, etc. The depicteddispenser 70 also includes cup-moving elements 72 b. In this regard, thedispenser 70 may include one or more structures/features that areconfigured to enable movement of the cup from the cup source through thedispenser 70 and its various components. Some example structures includea cup source removal structure for separating a single cup from the cupsource, a cup movement structure for causing the cup to move from thecup source to a printing position for being printed on by the printdevice 75, a cup rotation structure for causing the cup to rotate forpresentation of the printed cup to a food service provider.

FIG. 8A illustrates two example food service material dispensers for usewith an example on-demand food service material printing system. In sucha system, the system includes a first dispenser 471 a that is configuredto print on and dispense a first type of food service material item(e.g., a standard food wrap). The system also includes a seconddispenser 471 b that is configured to print on and dispense a secondtype of food service material item (e.g., a premium food wrap). In thedepicted embodiment, the system has determined that the premium foodwrap is need for the current food order and, thus, printed on anddispensed a printed premium food wrap sheet 475 c using the seconddispenser 471 b. FIG. 8B shows a close-up view of the second dispenser471 b. The dispenser 471 b includes a user interface 473 and a chute 472for dispensing the printed food wrap sheet 475 c. The chute 472 isdesigned to present the printed food wrap 475 c for easy retrieval by afood service person 418. Though shown as separate dispensers (471 a, 471b) for different food wraps in FIGS. 8A-8B, in some embodiments, asingle dispenser may be configured to print on both types of food wraps.

FIG. 9 shows example food orders, where some of the food orders arepackaged in a food service material with printed information thereon.For example, a hamburger 521 has been wrapped with a food wrap that haspersonalization print information 544 a printed and oriented to face thecustomer upon presentation of their food order. In the depictedembodiment, the fries 522 are provided in a pouch that also has orderprint information (OPI) and/or personalization print information (PPI)546 printed thereon. In some embodiments, the cup 523 may includeprinted information (such as personalization print information).

FIGS. 10A-10C show example dispensers that can be used with variousexample on-demand food service material printing systems describedherein.

FIG. 10A shows an example dispenser 770 with a housing 774 that may besized to maintain a small and/or desired footprint. In this regard,there may be limited space in the store and it may be desirable toposition the on-demand printer near or within the food servicepreparation line (e.g., to allow the food service person to easily andquickly retrieve the printed food service material item for use inpreparing the food order). In some embodiments, the system may bedesigned such that one or more dispenser 70 are positioned within acertain proximity of one or more food request systems 80. For example,the printer may be within 30 feet of at least one of a self-order kioskor a point-of-sale operator terminal. Indeed, one benefit of the presentsystem is to provide on-demand printing capability for food servicematerial items for use during preparation of the food order and, thus,designing the printer to be positioned proximate the food orderpreparation area may be desirable to maintain efficient food orderpreparation. In some embodiments, due to the close proximity of the foodrequest system and printer, Bluetooth communication between the twodevices/systems could be utilized.

Returning to FIG. 10A, the dispenser 770 includes a housing 774 that isconfigured to hold at least one supply of food service material 778(e.g., the shown roll of food service material) among other components(e.g., print devices 75). The dispenser 770 may also include a chute 772for dispensing of printed food service material item. Additionally, thedispenser 770 may be designed to enable access (such as near 777) to theinternal housing for maintenance, replacement of ink or food servicematerial item supply, etc.

FIG. 10B shows another example dispenser 770′ that includes a housing774′ that is configured to hold at least one supply of food servicematerial (e.g., the housing may be configured to hold a stack of foodservice material sheets, such as near 779 within the housing) amongother components (e.g., print devices 75). The dispenser 770′ may alsoinclude a chute 772′ for dispensing of printed food service materialitem. Additionally, the dispenser 770′ may be designed to enable access(such as near 777′) to the internal housing for maintenance, replacementof ink or food service material item supply, etc.

FIG. 10C shows another example dispenser 770″ that includes a housing774″ that is configured to hold two rolls of food service material 778a, 778 b among other components (e.g., print devices 75). The dispenser770″ may also include a chute 772″ for dispensing of printed foodservice material item. Additionally, the dispenser 770″ may be designedto enable access (such as near 777″) to the internal housing formaintenance, replacement of ink or food service material item supply,etc.

FIG. 11 shows another example dispenser 1070 for printing on anddispensing a sheet of food service material (e.g., food wrap). Thedispenser 1070 includes a housing 1074 that is sized to fit in a foodservice line. The housing 1074 includes a front cover 1074 a that can beopened to enable access to the roll of food service material 1078 (shownin FIG. 11A), such as to enable replacement of a depleted (or neardepleted) roll of food service material 1078. The housing 1074 alsoincludes a side panel 1074 b that can be removed and/or opened to enableaccess to various components of the dispenser 1070, such as formaintenance or replacement of parts or features. For example, thedispenser 1070 may be designed to enable replacement of ink for theprint devices (e.g., print device 1075 shown in FIG. 11B).

The dispenser 1070 includes a user interface 1079 that can be used todisplay information to the food service provider and/or enablefunctionality, such as through button(s) and/or touchscreen(s). Forexample, the user interface 1079 may display the current food servicematerial item that is being prepared by the dispenser. Additionally, theuser interface 1079 may provide maintenance information to a nearby foodservice provider, such as if the ink needs replacement, if the roll offood service material is nearly depleted, error messages, etc. In someembodiments, such information may (additionally or alternatively) beprovided through wireless or wired communications with a remotecomputing device.

The dispenser 1070 also includes a dispensing slot that enables a foodservice provider to collect a printed food service material item (e.g.,a printed and appropriately-sized sheet of food wrap).

As illustrated with respect to FIG. 11A, a food service provider mayopen the front cover (not shown in FIG. 11A) to enable access to theroll of food service material 1078. In this regard, a depleted roll offood service material may be removed and replaced, such as by dropping anew roll of food service material into slots 1063 of the roll holder1042 (see also FIG. 11B). The food service provider may then feed theleading edge of the roll of food service material into the dispenser 70such as over an auto-tensioner roller 1095 and along arrow 1064 (shownin FIG. 11C). In some embodiments, an auto-feed feature may be providedthat causes the motor to operate to assist in feeding the leading edgeinto the dispenser 70 so as to “prime” or prepare the dispenser 70 forfuture dispensing. In some embodiments, a food service provider maypress button 1061 to initiate the auto-feed feature.

FIGS. 11B-11E illustrate a path 1011 for the food service material 1078through the dispenser 70. In this regard, the food service materialmoves along the path 1011, such as due to rotation of one or morerollers 1031 and/or the roll holder 1042—which can be driven byoperation of a motor (e.g., a motor 1043 may drive rotation of the rollholder 1042). For example, the food service material moves through aroll holder/cutting arrangement assembly 1040 positioned within thedispenser 1070. In particular, the food service material moves from theroll of food service material 1078 on a roll holder 1042 over anauto-tensioner roller 1095 and into the cutting arrangement 1045.

With reference to FIGS. 11C-E, the auto-tensioner 1095 comprises a rackand pinion assembly that enables adjustment of the tension in the foodservice material along the path 1011. In this regard, the controller(not shown) may monitor the tension in the food service material alongthe path 1011 and adjust it using the auto-tensioner 1095. In thedepicted embodiment, the auto-tensioner roller 1095 is configured totranslate within a slot 1098 along a rack 1099. Additionally, theauto-tensioner roller 1095 is connected to an arm 1096 that is pivotallyconnected to a spring 1097 at an opposite end. Such a configurationenables automatic tensioning adjustment to optimize the tension in thefood service material along the path 1011 of the dispenser 1070.Notably, such optimized tension may be beneficial in maintaining optimalprint and dispensing performance, as well as avoiding jamming or otherpotential errors.

In some embodiments, the controller (not shown) may monitor the tensionin the food service material along the path 1011. For example, withreference to FIG. 11F, an auto-tensioner displacement sensor 1080 (e.g.,a linear voltage displacement transducer) may measure the positions ofthe auto-tensioner roller 1095. In the depicted embodiment, thedisplacement sensor 1080 is connected to a translation linkage 1082 thattranslates with the auto-tensioner roller 1095. In response, thecontroller can measure the translation of the auto-tensioner roller 1095to enable adjustments in the tension applied to the food servicematerial along the path 1011 (such as through adjusting downstreamrollers and/or various roller/motors along the path 1011). Although alinear voltage displacement transducer and translation linkage is shownin FIG. 11F, other sensors are contemplated.

In some embodiments, other dispensing arrangements for the food servicematerial dispenser are contemplated. For example, instead of utilizingan auto-tensioner roller 1095, in some embodiments, a clutch mechanismand a reverse-curl bar may be utilized with a dispensing motor to causefood service material to be fed from a roll of food service materialalong the path 1011. FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate an example dispensingarrangement for various example food service material dispenser. In thedepicted embodiment, a motor (not shown) drives the roll of food servicematerial 1078 to cause dispensing of the food service material along thepath 1011. A clutch mechanism 1250 is used to provide a drag force tohelp control the dispense and create desired tension. In someembodiments, the clutch mechanism 1250 may, along with a stationaryguide bar 1295 (e.g., a stationary reverse curl bar), form a negativecurl that helps de-curl the food service material that was rolled-up ona roll 1278.

With reference to FIG. 12B (which shows the dispensing arrangement withportions of the dispenser removed), the roll of food services material1278 is held on a roll holder that rotates along an axis 1279. A firstgear 1277 is positioned at the end of the roll holder and also rotatesaround axis 1279. The first gear 1277 is engaged with a second gear 1257(shown in FIGS. 12C-D), that rotates about a second axis 1251.

The clutch mechanism 1250 includes a friction disk 1255 that rotateswith the second gear 1257 about the second axis 1251 (such that thefriction disk 1255 rotates with the roll of food service material 1278).The friction disk 1255 is sandwiched between two plates 1253 a and 1253b, such as by utilizing fasteners 1252 (although other engagement andsandwiching means are contemplated). Notably, however, the plates 1253 aand 1253 b do not rotate with the friction disk and, instead, may beconnected to the dispenser housing. Friction pads 1254 a and 1254 b maybe attached to the plates 1253 a and 1253 b, respectively, and arepositioned between the friction disk 1255 and each respective plate 1253a and 1253 b. As the roll of food service material 1278 rotates, thefriction disk 1255 also rotates and creates a drag force by itsinteraction with the friction pads 1254 a and 1254 b. In someembodiments, a spring 1256 may (such as in conjunction with thefasteners 1252) bias the plates 1253 a, 1253 b toward each other tosandwich the friction disk 1255 and help create a drag force (using thefriction pads) as the friction disk 1255 rotates.

Further, in some embodiments, a stationary guide bar 1295 may bepositioned along the path 1011 and utilized in conjunction with the dragforce created to cause a de-curling effect on the food service materialprior to dispensing. As shown in FIGS. 12A-C, the stationary guide bar1295 may be connected to the dispenser housing, such as using aconnection plate 1296. The food service material may be driven from theroll 1278 and over the stationary guide bar 1295 (e.g., at 1264) tocause the de-curl effect.

In some embodiments, the positioning of the stationary guide bar 1295with respect to the position of the roll of food service material 1278and the direction of travel along the path 1011 for dispensing isimportant for forming the de-curl effect. For example, in the depictedembodiment (from the illustrated perspective), while the food servicematerial item ultimately moves to the left (e.g., toward the cuttingarrangement 1045), the stationary guide bar 1295 is positioned to theright of roll of food service material item 1278. Since the food servicematerial comes off the top of the roll 1278, the food service materialhas a pre-formed curl (e.g. by virtue of being rolled up) to the right.However, by forcing the food service material to take a sharp left turnover the stationary guide bar 1295 and move back to the left, thepre-formed right curl is counter-acted with a left curl (e.g., similarto rubbing a curled piece of paper on the edge of a desk).

Returning to the remainder of the dispensing path, next the food servicematerial passes along the path 1011 through a cutting arrangement 1045.With reference to FIG. 11D, the depicted cutting arrangement 1045includes two cutting rollers aligned on opposite sides of the path 1011.A controller, such as through a motor, may be configured to controlrotation and/or engagement of one or both of the cutting rollers withthe food service material to cause cutting thereof. The depicted cuttingarrangement 1045 includes a first cutting roller 1021 that includes acutter (e.g., knife) 1022 that extends outwardly from a circumferentialsurface of the first cutting roller 1021. The cutting arrangement 1045also includes a second cutting roller 1023 that includes a slot 1024that is sized to receive the cutter 1022 of the first cutting roller1021 when the first cutting roller 1021 is rotated to cause the cutter1022 to extend into the path 1011 and cut the food servicematerial—thereby forming the sheet of food service material 1078 a.

Next, the food service material moves past the print device 1075 (e.g.,along arrow Pp shown in FIG. 11G) where information is printed thereon.Depending on the configuration of the dispenser 1070, the printing mayoccur before or after cutting of the food service material. In eithercase, in some embodiments, the dispenser 1070 includes one or moreprinter rollers that are configured to maintain appropriate tension inthe food service material for printing.

FIGS. 11B and 11G depict a chute 1071 that enables dispensing of theprinted sheet of food service material to a food service provider. Inthis regard, the sheet of food service material is printed with theprint device 1075 and cut with the cutting arrangement 1045. Thereafter,the printed sheet of food service material passes (e.g., under theinfluence of gravity) down the chute 1071 along the arrow Pc and intothe dispensing slot 1072 along arrow PD.

Though not shown, the dispenser 1070 may include a wireless or wiredcommunication element (e.g., the communication interface 76 shown anddescribed with respect to FIG. 7), such as for use with variousembodiments of the present invention described herein (e.g., with/in anon-demand food service printing system).

FIG. 13 illustrates an example cup dispenser 1170 in accordance withvarious example embodiments described herein (such as the dispenser 70shown in FIG. 7C). The depicted cup dispenser 1170 includes a housing1174 that is sized with a small footprint such as to fit on a counterand/or within a food service preparation area. The depicted cupdispenser 1170 includes a cup source 1142 that holds a stack of cups1178. Additionally, the cup dispenser 1170 includes a user interface inthe form of a screen 1179 a and buttons 1179 b. The screen 1179 a can beused to display information to the food service provider. For example,the user interface 1179 a may display the cup order that is beingprepared by the dispenser. Additionally, the user interface 1179 a mayprovide maintenance information to a nearby food service provider, suchas if the ink needs replacement, if the stack of cups is nearlydepleted, error messages, etc. In some embodiments, such information may(additionally or alternatively) be provided through wireless or wiredcommunications with a remote computing device. The dispenser 1170 alsoincludes a dispensing slot 1172 that enables a food service provider tocollect a printed cup 1105 therefrom.

With reference to FIG. 13A, upon receiving a food service order, such asfrom a remote food service request module (e.g., the point of salecomputing device 1103 shown in FIG. 13C) through a wireless connectionW, the cup dispenser 1170 may provide an alert A to indicate that it hasreceived the order and is beginning preparation of the printed cup. Oneor more cup-moving elements (not shown) may cause a single cup to dropdown along a path into the dispenser (e.g., along arrow P). In thedepicted embodiment, a cup is separated from the stack of cups 1178 anddrops down from the cup source 1142 into the dispensing slot 1172. Insome embodiments, the force of gravity may assist with movement of thecup.

With reference to FIG. 13B, a print device (not shown) may print orderinformation and/or personalization information on the cup 1105. Afterprinting, a cup-rotation element may cause the printed cup to rotate,such as for presentation to a food service provider. In someembodiments, a door may be used to cover the cup, such as duringprinting. Such an example door may be unlocked and/or automaticallyopened after printing is complete to enable retrieval of the printed cupby the food service provider.

FIG. 13C illustrates dispensing of a printed cup 1105 using the cupdispenser 1170. In the illustrated example, a food service provider 1108may be alerted (e.g., the “Ding”) to completion of the printed cup(although other types of alerts are contemplated, such as visual, textmessage, voice, etc.).

FIG. 13D illustrates an example printed cup 1105 that includespersonalization information 1106 (e.g., the customer's name “Michelle”)and order information 1109 (e.g., “Mint Mocha” and corresponding specialinstructions, such as “No Chocolate”). Once the food service provider1108 has retrieved the printed cup, they can use the order informationprinted directly on the cup to help in preparation of the appropriatefood service order (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 13E). Thereafter, thecompleted food order and corresponding printed cup 1105 can be placedout for gathering by the customer 1119. In this regard, the printedorder information and/or personalization information enable easyidentification of the appropriate food service order by the customer.

Example Control System for Other System(s)

The control architecture 15, such as through the controller module 60,may be configured to communicate with one or more other systems 90(e.g., front of house (FOH) or back-of-house (BOH) system(s)). In someembodiments, the controller module 60 may be configured to determine,based on at least one of the order information or the personalizationinformation, one or more instructions to transmit to one or more othercomponents/systems. For example, FIG. 14 shows an example control system810 that includes the controller module 860, a napkin dispenser 891, acutlery dispenser 892, other system(s) 893, and an external network 812.

The controller module 860 may be configured to determine one or moreinstructions/messages to provide to various other systems (e.g., anapkin dispenser, cutlery dispenser, paper towel dispenser, soapdispenser, etc.). In some embodiments, some such dispensers (e.g.,napkin dispenser(s), cutlery dispenser(s), paper towel dispenser(s),soap dispenser(s), etc.) may be referred to as back-of-house (BOH)systems. Such communication may occur directly to the other system(s)and/or through an external network 812.

In some embodiments, the determined instructions or messages may bebased on any information gathered herein. For example, the controllermodule 60 may determine that the napkin dispenser 891 should dispense acertain number of napkins to fulfill a food order request and instructthe napkin dispenser 891 accordingly. Such determination of the numberof napkins may be made at the napkin dispenser and/or by the controllermodule 60. In this regard, the determined number of napkins could bebased on a personal preference, other personalization information forthe customer, and/or the order information.

Similarly, the controller module 60 may determine that the cutlerydispenser 892 should dispense a certain number and/or type of cutleryitems to fulfill a food order request and instruct the cutlery dispenser892 accordingly. Such determinations may be made at the cutlerydispenser and/or by the controller module 60. In this regard, thedetermined number and/or type of cutlery could be based on a personalpreference, other personalization information for the customer, and/orthe order information.

In some embodiments, the on-demand printing system may utilize napkinsor cutlery for printing information thereon—e.g., as the food servicematerial item. In such embodiments, the printer may be configured toprint on such items and may be built into the corresponding dispenser.

In some embodiments, the controller module 60 may be configured togather information and provide the gathered information to a remoteserver and/or the control architecture 15 for use with dataaggregation/analysis, reports, and/or other data analytics. Suchinformation may include data gathered from various other systems as wellas any other connected system.

Example Flowchart(s)

Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatuses andcomputer program products for providing on-demand food service materialprinting for a food order according to various embodiments describedherein. Various examples of the operations performed in accordance withembodiments of the present invention will now be provided with referenceto FIG. 15.

FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart according to an example method forproviding on-demand food service material printing for a food orderaccording to an example embodiment. The operations illustrated in anddescribed with respect to FIG. 15 may, for example, be performed by,with the assistance of, and/or under the control of one or more of thecomponents, architectures, modules, networks, and/or systems/devices ofsystem 10, such as described herein.

The method 900 may include receiving a request for food service atoperation 902. At operation 904, the method may include determiningorder information based on the request. At operation 906, the method mayinclude determining personalization information based on the request.Then, the method may include determining order print information, suchas based on the order information, at operation 908 and personalizationprint information, such as based on the personalization information, atoperation 910. At operation 912, the method may include determining thefood service material item to print on for fulfilling the food order.Then, at operation 914, the method may include printing on the foodservice material item and presenting it to the food service person foruse with preparation of the food order.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example flowchart of a system, method, andcomputer program product according to various example embodimentsdescribed herein. It will be understood that each block of theflowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, may beimplemented by various means, such as hardware and/or a computer programproduct comprising one or more computer-readable mediums having computerreadable program instructions stored thereon. For example, one or moreof the procedures described herein may be embodied by computer programinstructions of a computer program product. In this regard, the computerprogram product(s) which embody the procedures described herein may bestored by, for example, the memory and executed by, for example, thecontrol architecture 15. As will be appreciated, any such computerprogram product may be loaded onto a computer or other programmableapparatus to produce a machine, such that the computer program productincluding the instructions which execute on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus creates means for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart block(s). Further, the computer programproduct may comprise one or more non-transitory computer-readablemediums on which the computer program instructions may be stored suchthat the one or more computer-readable memories can direct a computer orother programmable device to cause a series of operations to beperformed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce acomputer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute onthe computer or other programmable apparatus implement the functionsspecified in the flowchart block(s).

CONCLUSION

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forthherein may come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theseinventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the embodiments of the invention are not to belimited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications andother embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of theinvention. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings describe example embodiments in the context ofcertain example combinations of elements and/or functions, it should beappreciated that different combinations of elements and/or functions maybe provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scopeof the invention. In this regard, for example, different combinations ofelements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are alsocontemplated within the scope of the invention. Although specific termsare employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive senseonly and not for purposes of limitation.

1. A cup dispenser for dispensing a cup with printed information for usewith a food service order, the cup dispenser comprising: a cup sourceconfigured to hold a stack of cups; one or more cup-moving elementsconfigured to cause a cup from the stack of cups to move through the cupdispenser; a motor configured to operate the one or more cup-movingelements to cause the cup to move through the cup dispenser along apath; a printer configured to print at least one of order information orpersonalization information on the cup, wherein the at least one oforder information or personalization information is based on the foodservice order associated with the cup; and a dispensing slot positionedalong the path and configured to hold the cup and enable a user toaccess the cup, wherein, when the cup is accessible by the user, the cupincludes the at least one of order information or personalizationinformation printed thereon.
 2. The cup dispenser of claim 1, whereinthe printer is positioned along the path downstream of the cup source.3. The cup dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one or more cup-movingelements comprise a cup-rotation structure configured to cause the cupto rotate after being printed on by the printer.
 4. The cup dispenser ofclaim 3, wherein the cup-rotation structure is positioned within thedispensing slot and configured to cause the cup to rotate within thedispensing slot.
 5. The cup dispenser of claim 3 further comprising adoor configured to cover the dispensing slot during printing.
 6. The cupdispenser of claim 1, wherein the one or more cup-moving elementscomprise a cup source removal structure configured to separate the cupfrom the stack of cups.
 7. The cup dispenser of claim 6, wherein the oneor more cup-moving elements comprise a cup movement structure configuredto cause the cup to move from the cup source to a printing position forbeing printed on by the printer.
 8. The cup dispenser of claim 6,wherein the cup source is positioned above the printer such that gravitycauses the removed cup to fall into a printing position for beingprinted on by the printer.
 9. The cup dispenser of claim 1 furthercomprising a user interface configured to display informationcorresponding to the food service order.
 10. The cup dispenser of claim1, wherein the cup source is configured to hold a plurality of stacks ofcups.
 11. The cup dispenser of claim 10, wherein two of the plurality ofstacks of cups comprise differently-sized cups, and wherein the one ormore cup-moving elements are configured to selectively cause removal ofa specifically sized cup based on the food service order.
 12. The cupdispenser of claim 1 further comprising a communication elementconfigured to communicate with a remote computing device, wherein theremote computing device comprises a food request module configured toreceive a request for food service for a customer, wherein the requestfor food service includes the food service order.
 13. The cup dispenserof claim 12 further comprising a controller configured to: receive, viathe communication element and from the remote computing device, foodservice order data corresponding to the food service order; determine,based on the food service order data, the at least one of orderinformation or personalization information to print on the cup; andcause dispensing of the cup with the at least one of order informationor personalization information printed thereon.
 14. A system for causingdispensing of a cup for use in creating a food service order, the systemcomprising: a food request module stored on a remote computing device,wherein the remote computing device comprises a food request moduleconfigured to receive a request for food service for a customer, whereinthe request for food service includes the food service order; and a cupdispenser for dispensing the cup with printed information for use withthe food service order, the cup dispenser comprising: a communicationelement configured to communicate with the remote computing device; acup source configured to hold a stack of cups; one or more cup-movingelements configured to cause a cup from the stack of cups to movethrough the cup dispenser; a motor configured to operate the one or morecup-moving elements to cause the cup to move through the cup dispenseralong a path; a printer configured to print at least one of orderinformation or personalization information on the cup, wherein the atleast one of order information or personalization information is basedon the food service order associated with the cup; and a dispensing slotpositioned along the path and configured to hold the cup and enable auser to access the cup, wherein, when the cup is accessible by the user,the cup includes the at least one of order information orpersonalization information printed thereon.
 15. The system of claim 14,wherein the cup dispenser further comprises a controller configured to:receive, via the communication element and from the remote computingdevice, food service order data corresponding to the food service order;determine, based on the food service order data, the at least one oforder information or personalization information to print on the cup;and cause dispensing of the cup with the at least one of orderinformation or personalization information printed thereon.
 16. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein the printer is positioned along the pathdownstream of the cup source.
 17. The system of claim 14, wherein theone or more cup-moving elements comprise a cup-rotation structureconfigured to cause the cup to rotate after being printed on by theprinter.
 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more cup-movingelements comprise a cup source removal structure configured to separatethe cup from the stack of cups.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein theone or more cup-moving elements comprise a cup movement structureconfigured to cause the cup to move from the cup source to a printingposition for being printed on by the printer.
 20. A method of dispensinga cup, the method comprising: providing a cup dispenser for dispensingthe cup with printed information for use with a food service order, thecup dispenser comprising: a controller; a communication element; a cupsource configured to hold a stack of cups; one or more cup-movingelements configured to cause a cup from the stack of cups to movethrough the cup dispenser; a motor configured to operate the one or morecup-moving elements to cause the cup to move through the cup dispenseralong a path; a printer configured to print at least one of orderinformation or personalization information on the cup, wherein the atleast one of order information or personalization information is basedon the food service order associated with the cup; and a dispensing slotpositioned along the path and configured to hold the cup and enable auser to access the cup, wherein, when the cup is accessible by the user,the cup includes the at least one of order information orpersonalization information printed thereon; and receiving, via thecommunication element and from a remote computing device, food serviceorder data corresponding to the food service order; determining, basedon the food service order data, the at least one of order information orpersonalization information to print on the cup; and causing dispensingof the cup with the at least one of order information or personalizationinformation printed thereon.